Blake Whatcott

Blake is a dynamic multi-instrumentalist active in the Chicago music scene. Proficient on both trombone and piano, he skillfully melds these instruments, utilizing their distinct characteristics to enrich his improvisation and propel his musical journey forward. Frequent collaborator, leader of his own quintet, member of Los Tamales Jazz Band, Shakra (Japanese Jazz Fusion), and several community ensembles, Blake believes even greater fulfillment comes from outside the practice room, sharing your music with the community.

Blake prioritizes creating practicing methods that always keep the interest of the student in a way, yet never neglects the fundamentals of traditional music education. He believes that some of the greatest joy music can offer comes from not only learning other's compositional works, but also how they created them, why they work, and how to create your own, even on the spot! He believes that musical improvisation is one of the most profound arts within music, and that anyone can learn to improvise!